The Surprise is Perfect!
Vampire The Masquerade Bloodlines 2 has both excited and startled me, as a long-time fan of the RPG series and nocturnal bloodsucking creatures in general. If you're like me, you've probably been eagerly awaiting the reveal of the third clan in the sequel. The Chinese Room and Paradox Interactive have now shown us which playable clan it is, and it has completely blown me away. The third clan is not Toreador or Ventrue, no. It's Banu Haqim.
That's right. Vampire The Masquerade Bloodlines 2 has stunned us all with this revelation. If you're new to the series or unsure why this is such a surprising outcome, the Banu Haqim have never been playable in the game before. This clan strictly adheres to the law and camouflage, quenching their immortal thirst for other vampires by stepping on anyone they deem to be against their vital beliefs.
The New Clan in Detail
The latest clan in the RPG game offers players who enjoy assassin-style runs a great opportunity to utilize the skills of the Banu Haqim vampires in speed and silent stalking, resulting in the ultimate stealth build. If you prefer a less brutal, direct combat experience, then this is the clan for you. Unlike the wild Brujah or the recently revealed Tremere clan, bloody close-quarters and ranged combat are not the focus of the Banu Haqim.
Stealth over Raw Violence
Instead, a more covert playstyle takes center stage. These night hunters skillfully avoid attacks and carry out their own without much fuss or combat. In other words, the Banu Haqim can be very fearsome elders. The developer notes that the clan is "ideal for players seeking a strategic experience." If you appreciate "finesse and precision," make your Phyre a Banu Haqim.
Look Forward to Something New
I'm excited to check out the clan for the first time in a virtual environment, rather than through tabletop gaming. Although the Banu Haqim is new to those unfamiliar with the DnD-inspired series outside of video games, most will have had similar gameplay experiences in games like Baldur's Gate 3. Think lawful... maybe not lawful good, but certainly lawful.
If you're a fan of other narrative-driven experiences like Vampire the Masquerade, you can browse through our list of great story games to discover new lore. Alternatively, if you're in need of another dark, blood-sucking adventure while waiting for the sequel to Bloodlines, you can check out some of our favorite vampire games. Get ready for the new clan and secure your Steam Key for Vampire: The Masquerade Bloodlines 2 now!
